Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Commonly referred to as the Evergreen State, Washington has far more to offer than the rainy days it is so well known for. The lush landscape is highlighted by natural features such as the impressive Cascade mountain range and rolling hills of the eastern countryside. Vacation opportunities are in plenty whether you are in the mood for crisp mountain air or a cool desert breeze.
Make the trek to Mount Rainier’s Paradise Jackson Visitor Center for breathtaking mountain views while following the numerous exhibits that circle around the base of the mountain upon which the center is built. Watch the park film to learn about the trials and triumphs of Mt. Rainier’s most notorious hikers before heading out on the 2.4-mile Bench and Snow Lakes Trail, a scenic route defined by low ridges and impressive views of Mt. Rainier’s peak. Complete your visit with a stay at Paradise Inn, a German-styled lodge near the visitors' center that offers pristine mountain views, authentically styled northwest rooms and fine dining options.
Conveniently located in the North Central part of the state, the city of Leavenworth is a lively community with a calendar full of year-round activities. Creatively themed as a Bavarian village, a stroll down Leavenworth’s narrow brick walkways is like stepping straight into an authentic Bavarian village, complete with ornately carved buildings, yodeling in the streets and perfectly dressed workers in traditional German attire. Wander in and out of the small German shops filled with locally made arts and crafts, feast upon homemade fudge and stop into the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum, home to more than 6,000 nutcrackers, several of which date back over 500 years. With the Autumn Leaf Festival and Oktoberfest celebrations running in autumn, Christmas and holiday festivities in the winter and live music and arts festivals scattered throughout spring and summer, Leavenworth is an upbeat destination city any season.
Anacortes, 80 miles north of Seattle, is a sleepy northwestern city and departure point for whale watching tours. Observe the magnificence of orcas as you get up close and personal with the killer whale in its natural habitat. Ferry over to the San Juan Islands for a vacation replete with outdoor activities including kayaking, hiking, fishing, boating and bicycling. Peruse the local artist co-op studios and retail shopping on Orcas Island before ending the day at one of the island’s pristine waterfront seafood restaurants.
Eastern Washington is a semi-arid desert with agricultural abundance. The South Central portion of the state is full of beautiful wineries scattered along its countryside. Escape the crowds with a visit to the quaint city of Prosser, approximately three hours east of Seattle. Twice listed as one of the "100 Best Communities" by America’s Promise Alliance, Prosser serves as the heart of the Yakima Valley’s wine country and hosts more than three dozen tasting rooms, annual wine-tastings and festivals. Enlist the services of DeVine Limousine or Four Star Limos to chauffeur you around in style as you sample Riesling, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon while soaking in the majestic views of Mt. Adams and Mt. Rainier along the way. A beautiful destination and reprieve from the city, a vacation into the heart of Washington’s wine country is a must.